We’re all about PoC, not RFP

The problem with RFPs

Traditionally, organizations turn to the RFP process when searching for a new solution or partner. On paper, the RFP seems straightforward: you outline your requirements, send them to vendors, and wait for proposals to roll in. But in reality, it’s not that simple. The reality is that RFPs rarely deliver the value they seek, and that’s because of four key points:

1. RFPs are disconnected from real-world systems
2. RFPs focus on features, not outcomes
3. RFPs delay results

Most RFPs revolve around a checklist of technical requirements. But while ticking boxes can help eliminate vendors and make choices, it doesn't always deliver solutions that align with your business objectives. The result? A solution that's technically correct but doesn't address the bigger questions. In an era where AI accelerates processes and provides insights, the traditional RFP process feels slow and static, while technology today demands agility and immediate validation. Moreover, organizations often expect vendors to provide solutions without having insight into the existing technological infrastructure. This lack of context often leads to unexpected challenges during implementation.

From drafting the RFP and collecting responses to reviewing proposals and finalizing contracts, the process takes months. And by the time you choose a vendor, your needs or priorities may have shifted. Even after you’ve selected a vendor, the implementation itself can take months. By the time you see any value, the market you want to make an impact in may have changed again, taking you right back to square one, only this time out of pocket.

The truth is that RFPs are about risk avoidance, not value creation. And for businesses that want to move quickly, innovate, and deliver results, there’s a better way forward: PoCs.

Why PoCs are better

At rb2, we believe in action. That’s why the Proof of Concept (PoC) aligns so well with how we work. Unlike RFPs, which focus on hypothetical scenarios, a PoC is all about real-world testing and value. It’s an opportunity to validate ideas, measure outcomes, and make informed decisions without months of uncertainty.

Here’s how a PoC shifts the focus from compliance to value creation:

1. Immediate value, not long timelines
2. Outcomes over checklists
3. Clear insight into ROI
4. A preview of the partnership
5. Simplified internal buy-in
6. Lower cost of change

With a PoC, you can quickly test a solution and achieve immediate results. AI significantly accelerates this process. From automatic code generation to smart test scenarios and data analysis. This allows us to deliver in a few weeks what previously took months, and we can make smarter adjustments in each iteration. With a PoC, you don’t just ask vendors to meet technical requirements, you ask them to prove they can deliver on your business goals. Whether it’s improving workflows, boosting efficiency, or driving revenue, the PoC focuses on measurable outcomes that matter.

A PoC provides concrete data on how a solution performs, including its potential for revenue lift and ROI. Instead of guessing how a tool will impact your business, you see the results first-hand. Working in this way gives you a chance to test not just the solution, but the vendor relationship itself. You get to see how they collaborate, solve problems, and support your team: critical factors for long-term success. On top of that, it’s much easier to get stakeholders on board when they can see the results for themselves.

By reducing time, effort, and uncertainty, a PoC minimizes the cost of change making innovation faster, easier, and more affordable. So much better than an RFP, don’t you agree?

Let’s build value, together

At rb2, we’re all about moving quickly, embracing innovation, and delivering results. A PoC embodies these values because it’s agile, impactful, and focused on creating value, not ticking boxes.

Whether you’re exploring new solutions or rethinking existing systems, we’re here to help you validate ideas, deliver results, and unlock new opportunities. If you’re ready to leave the outdated RFP process behind and take a smarter approach to innovation, let’s talk.

Ready to get started? Let’s build something meaningful, together.

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